Real Madrid and Manchester United drop points

LONDON (Reuters) - Real Madrid and Manchester United dropped points in their drive for domestic glory, Real beaten by Almeria in the Primera Liga and United drawing with Tottenham Hotspur in England.

Inter Milan moved eight points clear in Italy after a 1-0 win over strugglers Empoli during which Patrick Vieira was sent off.

SPAIN

The brakes were put on Real Madrid's drive to the title when an ambitious and classy-looking Almeria ended their eight-match winning streak with a deserved 2-0 victory at the Estadio Mediterraneo on Saturday.

A first-half goal by centre back Juanito and a penalty from former Real Madrid reserve team striker Alvaro Negredo less than a minute after the break gave Almeria a memorable victory in their first season in the top flight in 27 years.

Barcelona took advantage of Real's slip-up to close within six points of the leaders after a 1-0 win at home to Osasuna on Sunday but they did not secure the win until two minutes from time when midfielder Xavi cracked in an unstoppable first-time shot.

Barca's city rivals Espanyol moved into third spot, eight points further back, after ending their three-match losing streak with a gritty 1-0 win at Getafe.

The gloom was lifted a little at Valencia when Ronald Koeman's side recorded their first league win in 10 outings with a 2-0 victory at Valladolid.

ITALY